50 Best American Restaurants near Holden

“Val’s recently catered our teacher appreciation luncheon. To say it did not disappoint is an understatement. Food was delicious and portions were huge. Thank you for making ordering and pick up so easy.“

“A group of us have a dine-out almost one a month. For this Saturday afternoon, 12 of us, chose the Harvest Grille, located in Jefferson, a small section of Holden, Mass. \n\nTruth be told, this place (a nicely renovated older brick building) is on the intersection of a “Y’ on main road, quite visible, and has been there for many years, under various operators. It is one of those buildings situated on a slight corner, and I’ll admit, have been blind to it for many years. \n\nThe establishment is setup with a dining room, booths on the walls, and several tables down the center. The rear of the dining section has room to put 8-10 table s together for a group. A separate bar is on the other side of the building, with booth section, and space for a small live band. Music is somewhat facing away from the dining section, but not over-bearing when a musician is there. \n\nI would guess the majority of the clients are locals, as this area is a bedroom community for the city of Worcester. It’s not a flashy building, with just a modest sign on the intersection triangle some 25 feet away.\n\nHours are strict, with no lunch, and open Tuesday-Saturday 4p to 8p, and to 9p on Friday and Saturday. They are closed Mondays. They offered catered luncheon event space for large groups up to 150 people. Parking is in the back, which you do not see from the main road, so “are they busy or not” decision to stop can be deceiving.\n\nThe tables were heavy duty wood, and easy to move together for the group. The young but experienced waitress (ok, I’m old, but for you younger readers, “server”) was fantastic. Drinks were prompt and excellent, with my martini more than quite good. The specials are all interesting, and make the choice difficult. It’s not that there is a mass of selections, but these are keenly thought out and most worth a try on another night. We all ordered various appetizers, my wife and I sharing stuffed mushrooms with blue crab, and an order of bacon wrapped scallops. I would get both again. Nice sized mushrooms with generous filling, and the decent sized scallops so tender and moist. Well made, to the chef.\n\nMy wife has a few food restrictions (the ol’ aging stomach) so she went with the Wild Caught Baked Haddock. A nice portion of baked, buttered and crackered fish, mashed squash, almost as if it was a mix sweet potatoes too, which my wife absolutely enjoyed. I went with the Broiled Seafood Penne, with shrimp, scallops, fish pieces, and excellent penne in a light oil sauce. Fantastic. \n\nThe portions were nicely portioned, but for us, we had just enough of a take home for a light lunch the next day. I was very interested in their menu and saw more than a few creative dishes I want to try. I think you could get away with 3 or 4 appetizers and that would make a great varied meal for one alone. \n\nI had their cheese cake with berry sauce for dessert, and it was bigger t a you may often get, and very creamy and enjoyable.\n\nCost: moderate to slightly above, I would say. It’s 2025, and I understand quality costs more $$$ than 5 years ago. But I have also been to restaurants that charged more, and received what I think was lesser quality or rushed atmosphere. You want a good meal, just plan for it. Their prices are listed on their website.\n\nThe bill comes in a wooded block with slots for the charge card and that reminded me of the 4 stones in the movie, The Faith Element. Clever.\n\nHarvest Grille, 15 miles away, how did I not know about this place, for the past 5 or so years, we will be returning.“

“Attended bridal shower and it was perfect from beginning to end. Everyone complemented the food, service was excellent and all flowed so smoothly. Will be back to try out the restaurant!“

“amazing food great atmosphere“

“The personal service is as amazing as the food!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“

“I always want to try all of Armsby's dishes because they make meals based on what's in season. They have a lot of staples on their menu like the Smash Burger that I absolutely love. I crave the burger and fries here and it's hard to deviate. The drinks are always unique, too. If I just want to have a nice drink after a long week or stop in before some Worcester type event, I would choose Armsby over anything. The staff are always so friendly, too! It's such a Worcester institution and a must-try!“

“This was a 10/10 hit all around! We were just leaving Boston with 5 hour drive ahead of us - Eller's was off our route a bit, but the only place with great reviews and a menu that suited all of us. We could not have been more satisfied with this experience! Portions were huge, food was fresh and well prepared, service was with a smile and super speedy. My favorite part was that you could tell the owner/s take a lot of pride in the quality of the food and the service! On a busy Saturday night, the owner was talking to customers and running food to tables right alongside his crew, and his wife in the kitchen - no surprise why everything was excellent with that level of involvement from the owners! The next time we are in the area we will make a point to return.“

“We had our wedding at Spencer Country Inn and I truly cannot say enough incredible things about the experience. From start to finish, Amy — the venue coordinator — was an absolute dream to work with. She was organized, reassuring, and genuinely cared about making everything perfect for us. She went above and beyond in every possible way. At one point, I was literally about to walk down the aisle without my bouquet, and Amy stopped me, sprinted back to my room, and got it for me — talk about a lifesaver! I handed her all of my décor the day before, and she set everything up more beautifully than I could have imagined. It felt like she pulled the vision right out of my head. The food was incredible — our guests are still talking about it. Between the amazing service, the historic charm of the venue, and Amy’s unmatched dedication, our day was everything we dreamed of and more. If you’re considering Spencer Country Inn for your wedding or any event — DO IT. And make sure Amy is by your side!“

“Excellent lunch this Saturday.“

“My Server John was fantastic. He was very friendly and attentive. He took my order in a timely manner and saw to it that my meal was served hot and as ordered. My Black & White Pizza was delicious and filling. I have been dining at the Black & White Grille for many, many years and have rarely been disappointed.“

“Festive holiday drinks last night were delicious and made us very merry. Fantastic staff, service and dinner too. Just what my elf and I needed.“

“Stopped by this evening to try the new mystic pizza and the chicken bacon ranch. By far the best pizza I’ve ever had 🤤 the flavors are on point, the dough was to die for, and it’s made fresh to order- honestly you can’t go wrong. Whether you catch them in Rochdale or at an event, I promise you won’t be disappointed! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“

“went for Dinner last night and had the Sausage penne pasta in Vodka Sauce and The Pulled Pork Dinner, They never Disappoint. The Apple Gongazola Salad also Amazing.“

“I recommend their omelets and French toast….they are delicious 😋“

“My Server Jessica was Fantastic again. She is so Friendly to me and all the patrons. The Shepard's Pie and Vanilla Ice Cream were delicious and filling.“

“If you are looking for steak then you are in the right place! Definitely the best steak house in Worcester with great service. Plus they have creme brulee which is a no brainer. A little pricey obviously, but always a great choice if you don't mind spending the money.“

“I am a returning customer! I’ve done my bridal shower here and just had my baby shower. We were very happy with the food buffet, ambiance, price point, and planning. Maria, the manager, is easy to work with, kind and professional! I’ve done extensive research on so many restaurant venues in the Worcester area, and this place I would recommend for its excellent value. Thank you to Maria and the team for all their hard work!“

“Good food choices and kind & supportive people. I stayed here the last 3 nights so that I could be close to our elder Senior Mom in the Rehabilitation and Nursing Care Center after she had a health crisis. Every front desk person and staff person I have met has been kind, knowledgeable and has gone the extra mile for me to be comfortable and be able to get a little rest and nutrition. Thanks to all at Courtyard by Marriott Worcester.“

“I found myself in Worcester yesterday and searched for vegan food online and found Belmont Vegetarian among others listed. After seeing several pictures of dishes I decided to go! And I’m glad I did! Belmont Vegetarian (where everything is vegan) was delicious and in heaping portions. There’s a smaller (but still big) container for only $17 and change and a giant container (which I obviously got) for $19 and change. I got BBQ, mac n cheese, rice , beans, and chickpeas, and some sweet n sour steak. They also make their own delicious juice with sea moss. I got watermelon. The place is set up for takeout mostly with only 2 dining tables.Definitely worth the drive from NH!“

“I went to the restaurant today! I haven’t been for a very long time. And have not had the pleasure to try after the new owners. Omg!!! I have NEVER had fresher fish in my life!! I got the 2 Way Combo with fried clams and haddock. It was Outstanding!! Usually with fried food at other places I take two bites and I’m done….Nope not today!! The Food, the Service and the atmosphere was PERFECT!! I mean when the owner says can I get you an extra tartar sauce for the table and he brings the whole bottle?? Now that is Class and an Owner that wants his Patrons to come back!!! The waitresses and waiters were TOP NOTCH! I can’t wait to go back!! Fantastic!! Cannot recommend highly enough!!“

“Food was fresh and delicious, but I really wanna comment on our server, Shauna. She was always smiling and happy to serve and checked on us accordingly. Will be back ?“

“Today I ordered the Monti Cristo Sandwich !!! OMG !!! It was So Delicious that I ate the whole thing . I just couldn't Stop Eating it . I also got one to take Home . The Food at Lou Roc's is Incredible !! And the Portions of Food are big . And the Prices are Reasonable . My Friend and I usually go once a Week . But we will return again Tomorrow . Thank you For Such Great Food .“

“The best place I love it and the people that work there to very professional tooo 🙏🙏❤️❤️“

“Food was very good. Atmosphere is LOUD. Family friendly, but not many choices for kids on the menu. Good section of Cocktails, Beers,and Wines.“

“Always good service and great atmosphere“

“I was in your establishment for the very first time today. The atmosphere was very pleasant, service was excellent and the food was delicious and the prices were very reasonable! I plan on returning sometime in the near future! 👍🏻“

“The food is so warm, comforting, and made with such care. The atmosphere is always festive. Employees and customers are always in a happy mood. The drinks are tasty, refreshing and full of spirit. The chips and salsa are a great start, but be careful not to devour them and spoil the appetite you'll need to tackle your main dish! You'll walk out extremely satisfied because of the wonderful food you consumed. But, you'll also be pleasantly surprised because Pepe's is the best bang for your buck in Worcester. Highly recommended!!!“

“We went for dinner last night & everything was delicious!!! Bill & Jannette were fantastic! Two of us had the veal, one had the seafood medley & I had the chicken salad wrap. We also got the tuna ahi appetizer & a complimentary amuse-bouche. We can’t wait to go back! If you haven’t been there yet, you’re missing out. Also BYOB which is great 🍻🍷“

“Fabulous service, tasty bloody mary (loved the extra horseradish addition), and delicious omlette with lyoniase potatoes!“

“Good food and wonderful hosts“

“El ambiente y partidos en vivo la atención“

“I want to make some suggestions rather than saying I do or don’t recommend this place. I’m familiar with Pepper’s, and I like to support hard-working chefs, especially when they use local farms and vendors. The overall concept of self-service is fine, but I preferred the table service of the old restaurant. It felt a little more closed in, and I also don’t like the paper plates, cups, and plastic utensils. Real utensils were available, though. The salad choices looked really healthy and colorful, and the menu was certainly varied enough. I saw a frittata being served and it was the size of a half piece of pie, though it looked good. My friends and I opted for soup and grilled cheese sandwiches, thinking they would be more like upscale comfort food. Two of us had the bacon-tomato version, the other had the mushroom. Since they were pre-made, then popped in a convection oven, they were more like melted cheese on dry, light toast, versus the buttery, golden goodness that makes a grilled cheese what its name implies. The portion was small and the fillings meager. If the idea was to make it a healthier grilled cheese, even a drizzle of olive oil might help. The soup was luke-warm, but tasty enough. We shared a dessert bar, which was delicious, with black coffee, which didn’t taste fresh like it had ben sitting a while. Be forewarned that if you pay by credit card, an automatic 15 percent tip is added, though you have the option to change it up or down, if you happen to notice it. There wasn’t much service involved, and you clear your own table. My portion alone, which included the sandwich with chips, a cup of soup, dessert bar, and coffee, plus added tip came to just under twenty dollars. I would give it another shot, but there is room for improvement. We all agreed that the dining experience was at a grade of about C+. Wishing you success in the future... Hope this helps.“

“I had an amazing experience at Shah’s Halal Food! The food was extremely good — fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. The portions were generous, and everything tasted authentic. The staff was friendly, quick, and made the whole experience even better.

I highly recommend Shah’s Halal Food if you’re looking for delicious, satisfying, and high-quality meals. I’ll definitely be coming back!“

“We hosted a graduation event at the Grill on the Hill in May. The venue location is convenient. The sunset over the course was spectacular. The service was top-notch. Food was excellent. We worked with Bria on all the details for the event. She was responsive, friendly and fun! Definitely recommend the Grill on the Hill for your next event. The weather allowed us to move back and forth between the function room, porch and sand pit. A really fun experience for everyone!“

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We celebrated our 35th anniversary and my husband’s 56th birthday at Joey’s Bar & Grill in Worcester, and it was perfect from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond — multiple people came by to thank us for coming, especially when they learned we had driven two hours to be there. That kind of genuine hospitality is rare and made the night extra special. Dinner started with warm homemade bread and oil for dipping. Scott had the braised short ribs, I had the steak tips with grilled veggies — both were absolutely delicious. We ended by sharing the most incredible strawberry shortcake with homemade grilled biscuits, lemon curd, strawberries, ice cream, and whipped cream (with a candle, of course!). 🍓✨ In a city with so many options, Joey’s was truly the best choice. We’ll definitely be back — even though it’s a two-hour drive, it’s absolutely worth it!“

“Me and the Mrs had a very nice dinner Ribeyes are excellent , Adam was very personable. Everything tase very good portions could be a bit bigger , and maybe expand the menu abit. That's my only reservation, we will be going back to try lunch , Highly recomended Paul and Maria.“

“It's National Oyster Day & I'm hooked on The Mercantile's offer of $1 oysters with strawberry mignonette from 4-6, Monday to Thursday, is unbeatable. I also devoured their goat cheese bites, crispy broccoli, & boom boom shrimp, all incredible appetizers. My friends' mac & cheese with buffalo shrimp & lobster fettuccine were insane. To top it off Claire, our waitress, was absolute perfection. Back to the mac & cheese - top tier!“

“I finally had the Smash Burger and it was off the chart!! Sooooo Good👍“

“Really good food and clean“

“Very good service and my waitress was very helpful.“

“Food is always great and staff is very friendly and polite.“

“Great food, friendly staff“

“If you LOVE a good diner you must try Boulevard!! We've been driving all day from SC and wanted something that wasn't fast food. Boulevard didn't disappoint!! We ordered the pasta fagioli, baked meatloaf, manicotti with meatball and sausage, and the GIANT Italian club. Everything was delicious just like Nonna would've made. The Club was superb - didn't even need condiments! Meatloaf and meatballs amazing. I can't wait to stop in again for breakfast and conversation with their super friendly staff! 5 stars“

“If you blink, you’ll miss it, but that’s half the charm. Once you grab a seat, order a drink, and take a bite of the pizza, you’ll wonder why you ever went anywhere else.

The bar itself is no-frills: dim lighting, and locals who look like they’ve been coming here for decades. But the pizza? Absolute magic. Crispy, slightly charred crust, just the right amount of cheese, and toppings that taste way fresher than you’d expect from a place where the beer is cheaper than water.

It’s the kind of spot you almost don’t want to tell anyone about, but the pizza deserves the spotlight. If you’re into character, cold drinks, and food that blows expectations out of the water, this hole-in-the-wall might just be your new favorite place.“

“Just came across it on our drive and I loved the name. Very friendly pub! Thx for a delicious sandwich! ☘️😊“

“Excellent food! Fish& chips is the best in town!“

“The food is great. The service is great, and their patio is pet friendly. What more can I ask for?“

“We go every week or 2. It’s a great spot to sit at the bar and have some apps, dinner and delicious drinks. Julia is one of the best bartenders and makes it fun and comes up with new ideas for something new to try. It’s one of our favorite spots to go - keno , drinks and good food and people.“

“B-Man's 140 Tavern is such a gem! They make the best handmade burgers, and the vibe there is amazing with friendly bartenders and awesome live music. I was there with 10 friends, and Critical Mass Rock Band was absolutely rocking the house. Overall, it's an awesome place with unbelievably delicious burgers!“

“Always great service and great food!“